18-Wheeler & Trucking Accident Attorneys in Weld County, Colorado

When 80,000 Pounds Changes Everything: Your Fight Starts Here

One moment you’re driving through Weld County on I-25 or I-76. The next, an 18-wheeler is jackknifing across your lane, or you’re trapped beneath a trailer in an underride collision, or a runaway truck is barreling down from the mountains with failed brakes. These aren’t just accidents—they’re life-altering catastrophes that happen every day on Colorado’s trucking corridors.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for families devastated by commercial truck crashes. Ralph Manginello, our managing partner since 1998, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against the largest trucking companies in America—including Fortune 500 corporations like BP. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance companies before joining our team. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight against them. That’s your advantage.

We know Weld County’s highways intimately—the Eisenhower Tunnel corridor where brake failures cause runaway trucks, the I-25 stretch through Greeley where fatigue-related crashes spike, the agricultural routes where overloaded grain trucks create deadly hazards. When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re getting attorneys who understand both federal trucking regulations and the specific dangers of Colorado’s mountain and plains trucking.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in Weld County Are Different

The Physics Are Brutal

An 80,000-pound truck traveling at 65 mph needs 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields. Your 4,000-pound car? About 300 feet. That 40% longer stopping distance means truck drivers cannot react to sudden hazards the way you can. When they fail to adjust for this reality—whether through speeding, distraction, or fatigue—catastrophic collisions result.

The force equation is equally unforgiving. Force equals mass times acceleration. An 80,000-pound truck carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a passenger vehicle. In a collision, that energy transfers to the smaller vehicle with devastating consequences.

Colorado’s Unique Trucking Hazards

Weld County sits at the intersection of major freight corridors with distinct seasonal and geographic dangers:

Mountain Pass Hazards: The I-70 corridor through the Eisenhower Tunnel (11,158 feet elevation) creates unique dangers. Steep grades cause brake fade. Runaway truck ramps are emergency necessities, not optional features. Altitude affects engine performance. Winter storms can close passes with minimal warning.

Agricultural Peak Seasons: Weld County’s farming economy creates seasonal trucking surges. During harvest (September-October), grain trucks overload. During planting (April-May), equipment transport increases. These peaks correlate with higher accident rates.

Energy Sector Traffic: Colorado’s oil and gas operations generate significant heavy truck traffic on rural roads not designed for 80,000-pound vehicles. Tanker rollovers and hazmat incidents are particular concerns.

Weather Extremes: Colorado’s weather changes rapidly. A sunny morning can become a blizzard afternoon. Black ice forms without warning. High winds on the eastern plains affect high-profile trailers. These conditions demand constant vigilance that fatigued or rushed drivers cannot maintain.

The 10 Potentially Liable Parties in Your Weld County Trucking Accident

Most law firms sue the driver and trucking company—and stop there. That’s leaving money on the table. At Attorney911, we investigate every potentially liable party because more defendants means more insurance coverage means higher compensation for you.

1. The Truck Driver

The driver who caused your accident may be personally liable for negligent conduct including speeding, distracted driving, fatigue beyond legal limits, impairment, or traffic violations. We pursue their driving record, ELD data, cell phone records, and drug/alcohol test results.

2. The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

This is often your primary recovery target. Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million in federal minimum insurance—far more than individual drivers. They’re liable under respondeat superior for their employees’ negligence, and directly liable for negligent hiring, training, supervision, and maintenance.

We subpoena their Driver Qualification Files, maintenance records, dispatch logs, and CSA safety scores. A poor safety record proves they knew they were putting dangerous drivers on the road.

3. Cargo Owner / Shipper

The company that owned the cargo may be liable if they provided improper loading instructions, required overweight loading, failed to disclose hazardous materials, or pressured the carrier to expedite beyond safe limits.

4. Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loaders who physically secured the cargo may be liable for improper securement under 49 CFR Part 393. Unbalanced loads, inadequate tiedowns, and failure to use blocking or bracing all create liability.

5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

Defective design or manufacturing can create liability for catastrophic failures. Brake system defects, stability control failures, fuel tank placement causing fires, and inadequate crash protection are all potential claims.

6. Parts Manufacturer

Companies that made specific failed components—brakes, tires, steering systems—may be liable under product defect theories when their parts fail and cause accidents.

7. Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance providers who negligently repaired or inspected vehicles may be liable when their failures contribute to accidents. Improper brake adjustments, missed safety issues, and substandard repairs all create liability.

8. Freight Broker

Brokers who arranged transportation may be liable for negligent carrier selection—hiring carriers with poor safety records, inadequate insurance, or known violations.

9. Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may have separate liability for negligent entrustment or maintenance failures.

10. Government Entity

Federal, state, or local government may be liable for dangerous road design, inadequate maintenance, or failure to install safety features. These claims have strict notice requirements and shorter deadlines—contact us immediately if government liability is possible.

FMCSA Regulations That Prove Negligence in Your Weld County Trucking Case

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates every commercial truck on American highways. When trucking companies violate these rules, they create the dangerous conditions that cause catastrophic accidents. Proving FMCSA violations is often the key to establishing negligence and securing maximum compensation.

49 CFR Part 390 — General Applicability

These regulations define who must comply with federal trucking laws. Any vehicle with a GVWR over 10,001 pounds, designed to transport 16+ passengers, or carrying hazardous materials requiring placards falls under FMCSA jurisdiction. Most 18-wheelers operating in Weld County are subject to these comprehensive safety requirements.

49 CFR Part 391 — Driver Qualification Standards

Federal law establishes strict requirements for who may operate commercial vehicles. Drivers must be at least 21 years old for interstate commerce, able to read and speak English sufficiently, physically qualified per medical examiner certification, and hold a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

Critical for your case: Trucking companies must maintain a Driver Qualification File for every driver containing employment applications, motor vehicle records, road test certificates, medical certifications, annual driving record reviews, previous employer inquiries, and drug/alcohol test results. Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring—direct liability for the trucking company.

49 CFR Part 392 — Driving of Commercial Motor Vehicles

These rules govern safe operation. Key provisions include:

§ 392.3 — Ill or Fatigued Operators: No driver shall operate a CMV when ability or alertness is impaired through fatigue, illness, or any cause. This makes BOTH driver AND company liable when fatigued driving causes accidents.

§ 392.4 — Drugs and Other Substances: Prohibits operating under influence of Schedule I substances, amphetamines, narcotics, or any substance rendering driver incapable of safe operation.

§ 392.5 — Alcohol: Prohibits alcohol use within 4 hours before duty, while on duty, or with BAC of .04 or higher.

§ 392.6 — Speeding: Prohibits scheduling runs requiring speeds exceeding legal limits.

§ 392.11 — Following Too Closely: Requires reasonable and prudent following distance.

§ 392.82 — Mobile Phone Use: Prohibits hand-held mobile telephone use and texting while driving.

49 CFR Part 393 — Parts and Accessories for Safe Operation

These regulations establish equipment standards, including critical cargo securement and brake requirements.

Cargo Securement (§ 393.100-136): Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent leaking, spilling, blowing, falling, or shifting that affects vehicle stability. Securement systems must withstand 0.8g forward deceleration, 0.5g rearward acceleration, and 0.5g lateral forces.

Brake Requirements (§ 393.40-55): All CMVs must have properly functioning service brakes on all wheels, parking/emergency brake systems, and air brake systems meeting specific requirements. Brake adjustment must be maintained within specifications.

49 CFR Part 395 — Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations

These are the MOST COMMONLY VIOLATED regulations in trucking accidents. They prevent driver fatigue by limiting driving time.

Property-Carrying Drivers:

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Mandate (§ 395.8): Since December 18, 2017, most CMV drivers must use ELDs that automatically record driving time, synchronize with vehicle engines, and cannot be altered after the fact. ELD data proves HOS violations and is critical evidence in fatigue-related accidents.

49 CFR Part 396 — Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

These regulations ensure CMVs are maintained in safe operating condition.

§ 396.3 — General Maintenance: Every motor carrier must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all vehicles subject to its control.

Driver Inspection Requirements:

• Pre-Trip Inspection (§ 396.13): Before driving, drivers must be satisfied the CMV is in safe operating condition and must review the last driver vehicle inspection report if defects were noted.

• Post-Trip Report (§ 396.11): After each day’s driving, drivers must prepare written reports covering: service brakes, parking brake, steering mechanism, lighting devices and reflectors, tires, horn, windshield wipers, rear vision mirrors, coupling devices, wheels and rims, and emergency equipment.

Annual Inspection (§ 396.17): Every CMV must pass a comprehensive annual inspection covering 16+ systems. Inspection decals must be displayed, and records retained for 14 months.

Maintenance Record Retention (§ 396.3): Motor carriers must maintain records for each vehicle showing identification, inspection/repair/maintenance schedules, and repair records—retained for 1 year.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol: Why Immediate Action Saves Cases

Evidence in 18-wheeler accidents disappears with terrifying speed. While you’re recovering from injuries, the trucking company is already building its defense. Their rapid-response teams arrive at scenes within hours. Their lawyers are working before the ambulance leaves.

Critical Evidence Destruction Timelines:

The Spoliation Letter: Your Evidence Protection Shield

Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we send formal spoliation letters to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties. This legal notice demands preservation of:

• ECM/Black box data and ELD records
• Driver Qualification Files and employment records
• Vehicle maintenance and inspection records
• Dispatch logs and communications
• Dashcam and surveillance footage
• Cell phone records and GPS data
• Drug and alcohol test results

Once this letter is sent, destroying evidence becomes spoliation—a serious legal violation. Courts can instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable, impose monetary sanctions, or even enter default judgment.

Why We Move Faster Than Other Firms

Many personal injury firms treat trucking cases like car accidents. They wait weeks to investigate. By then, critical evidence is gone.

We don’t wait. Our 25+ years of trucking litigation experience taught us that the first 48 hours determine case outcomes. When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, we immediately deploy our preservation protocol. We’ve saved cases that other firms lost because they moved too slowly.

Catastrophic Injuries: Understanding What You’re Facing

18-wheeler accidents don’t cause “minor” injuries. The physics of 80,000 pounds against 4,000 pounds ensures catastrophic outcomes. Understanding these injuries—and their long-term implications—is essential to building your case.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when sudden trauma damages the brain—common in high-impact trucking collisions where forces cause the brain to strike the skull’s interior.

Severity Levels:

Common Symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, nausea, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, mood changes, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, sensory problems, speech difficulties, personality changes.

Lifetime Care Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity. Our firm has recovered $1.5 million to $9.8 million for TBI victims in trucking accidents.

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord disrupts brain-body communication, often resulting in permanent paralysis.

Types of Paralysis:

Lifetime Care Costs:

• Paraplegia: $1.1 million to $2.5 million+
• Quadriplegia: $3.5 million to $5 million+

These figures represent direct medical costs only—not lost wages, pain and suffering, or quality of life. Our firm has recovered $4.7 million to $25.8 million for spinal cord injury victims.

Amputation

Types:

• Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at scene due to crash forces
• Surgical Amputation: Limb so damaged it must be surgically removed

Ongoing Medical Needs: Initial surgery and hospitalization; prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000+ each); replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime; physical and occupational therapy; psychological counseling; home modifications.

Impact on Life: Permanent disability, career limitations or total disability, phantom limb pain, body image and psychological trauma, dependency on others for daily activities.

Our firm has recovered $1.9 million to $8.6 million for amputation victims.

Severe Burns

How Burns Occur: Fuel tank rupture and fire; hazmat cargo spills and ignition; electrical fires; friction burns from road contact; chemical burns from hazmat exposure.

Classification:

Internal Organ Damage

Common injuries include liver laceration, spleen damage, kidney injury, lung contusion, internal bleeding, and bowel damage. These injuries may not show immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening without emergency surgery.

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents kill, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims. Damages include lost future income, loss of companionship and guidance, mental anguish, funeral expenses, and punitive damages for gross negligence.

In Weld County, Colorado, the statute of limitations for wrongful death is two years from the date of death. Don’t wait—evidence disappears and witnesses’ memories fade.

FMCSA Regulations: The Rules Trucking Companies Break

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes mandatory safety standards for all commercial trucks. When companies violate these regulations, they create the dangerous conditions that cause catastrophic accidents. Proving FMCSA violations is often the key to establishing negligence and securing maximum compensation.

Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395)

These are the most commonly violated regulations in trucking accidents—and among the most dangerous.

Property-Carrying Driver Limits:

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Mandate: Since December 18, 2017, most drivers must use ELDs that automatically record driving time and cannot be altered. ELD data proves HOS violations and is critical evidence in fatigue-related accidents.

Driver Qualification Requirements (49 CFR Part 391)

Federal law establishes who may operate commercial vehicles. Drivers must be at least 21 years old for interstate commerce, able to read and speak English, physically qualified with valid medical certification, and hold a valid CDL.

Critical for your case: Trucking companies must maintain a Driver Qualification File for every driver containing employment applications, motor vehicle records, road test certificates, medical certifications, annual reviews, previous employer inquiries, and drug/alcohol test results. Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring—direct liability for the company.

Vehicle Safety and Cargo Securement (49 CFR Part 393)

Cargo Securement (§ 393.100-136): Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent leaking, spilling, blowing, falling, or shifting that affects vehicle stability. Securement systems must withstand 0.8g forward deceleration, 0.5g rearward acceleration, and 0.5g lateral forces.

Brake Requirements (§ 393.40-55): All CMVs must have properly functioning service brakes on all wheels, parking/emergency brake systems, and air brake systems meeting specific requirements. Brake adjustment must be maintained within specifications.

Safe Driving Practices (49 CFR Part 392)

Key provisions include:

• § 392.3 — Ill or Fatigued Operators: Prohibits operating when ability or alertness is impaired through fatigue, illness, or any cause. Makes both driver AND company liable for fatigue-related accidents.

• § 392.4/5 — Drugs and Alcohol: Prohibits operating under influence of controlled substances or alcohol (BAC .04 or higher).

• § 392.6 — Speeding: Prohibits scheduling runs requiring speeds exceeding legal limits.

• § 392.11 — Following Too Closely: Requires reasonable and prudent following distance.

• § 392.82 — Mobile Phone Use: Prohibits hand-held mobile telephone use and texting while driving.

Inspection and Maintenance (49 CFR Part 396)

§ 396.3 — General Maintenance: Every motor carrier must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all vehicles subject to its control.

Driver Inspection Requirements:

• Pre-Trip Inspection (§ 396.13): Before driving, drivers must verify the CMV is in safe operating condition and review any previous defect reports.
• Post-Trip Report (§ 396.11): After each day, drivers must document vehicle condition covering brakes, steering, lighting, tires, horn, wipers, mirrors, coupling devices, wheels, and emergency equipment.

Annual Inspection (§ 396.17): Every CMV must pass comprehensive annual inspection covering 16+ systems. Records must be retained for 14 months.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol: Act Now or Lose Everything

Evidence in 18-wheeler accidents disappears faster than you might imagine. While you’re focused on medical treatment and recovery, the trucking company is already building its defense. Their rapid-response teams arrive at accident scenes within hours. Their lawyers are working before the ambulance leaves.

Critical Evidence Destruction Timelines:

The Spoliation Letter: Your Evidence Protection Shield

Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we send formal spoliation letters to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties. This legal notice demands preservation of:

• ECM/Black box data and ELD records
• Driver Qualification Files and employment records
• Vehicle maintenance and inspection records
• Dispatch logs and communications
• Dashcam and surveillance footage
• Cell phone records and GPS data
• Drug and alcohol test results

Once this letter is sent, destroying evidence becomes spoliation—a serious legal violation. Courts can instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable, impose monetary sanctions, or even enter default judgment.

Why We Move Faster Than Other Firms

Many personal injury firms treat trucking cases like car accidents. They wait weeks to investigate. By then, critical evidence is gone.

We don’t wait. Ralph Manginello’s 25+ years of trucking litigation experience taught us that the first 48 hours determine case outcomes. When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, we immediately deploy our preservation protocol. We’ve saved cases that other firms lost because they moved too slowly.

Catastrophic Injuries: Understanding Your Recovery Path

The injuries sustained in 18-wheeler accidents are rarely “minor.” The physics of 80,000 pounds against 4,000 pounds ensures devastating outcomes. Understanding these injuries—and their long-term implications—is essential to building your case and securing the resources you’ll need.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when sudden trauma damages the brain—common in high-impact trucking collisions where forces cause the brain to strike the skull’s interior.

Severity Levels:

Common Symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, nausea, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, mood changes, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, sensory problems, speech difficulties, personality changes.

Lifetime Care Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity.

Our firm has recovered $1,548,000 to $9,838,000+ for TBI victims in trucking accidents.

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord disrupts brain-body communication, often resulting in permanent paralysis.

Types of Paralysis:

Lifetime Care Costs:

• Paraplegia: $1.1 million to $2.5 million+
• Quadriplegia: $3.5 million to $5 million+

These figures represent direct medical costs only—not lost wages, pain and suffering, or quality of life. Our firm has recovered $4,770,000 to $25,880,000+ for spinal cord injury victims.

Amputation

Types:

• Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at scene due to crash forces
• Surgical Amputation: Limb so damaged it must be surgically removed

Ongoing Medical Needs: Initial surgery and hospitalization; prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000+ each); replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime; physical and occupational therapy; psychological counseling; home modifications.

Impact on Life: Permanent disability, career limitations or total disability, phantom limb pain, body image and psychological trauma, dependency on others for daily activities.

Our firm has recovered $1,945,000 to $8,630,000 for amputation victims.

Severe Burns

How Burns Occur: Fuel tank rupture and fire; hazmat cargo spills and ignition; electrical fires; friction burns from road contact; chemical burns from hazmat exposure.

Classification:

Long-Term Consequences: Permanent scarring and disfigurement, multiple reconstructive surgeries, skin graft procedures, chronic pain, infection risks, psychological trauma.

Internal Organ Damage

Common injuries include liver laceration, spleen damage, kidney injury, lung contusion, internal bleeding, and bowel damage. These injuries may not show immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening without emergency surgery.

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents kill, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims. In Weld County, Colorado, you have two years from the date of death to file. Damages include lost future income, loss of companionship and guidance, mental anguish, funeral expenses, and punitive damages for gross negligence.

Don’t wait—evidence disappears and witnesses’ memories fade. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately if you’ve lost a loved one in a Weld County trucking accident.

Insurance Coverage in Weld County Trucking Accidents: Why These Cases Are High-Value

Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance far exceeding typical auto policies. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.

Federal Minimum Liability Limits

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more in coverage. This higher insurance means your catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated—but accessing these policies requires knowing how trucking law works.

Types of Damages Recoverable

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):

• Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
• Lost wages and income
• Lost earning capacity
• Property damage
• Out-of-pocket expenses
• Life care costs for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life):

• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement
• Loss of consortium
• Physical impairment

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence):

Available when trucking companies or drivers act with gross negligence, willful misconduct, conscious indifference to safety, or fraud (such as falsifying logs or destroying evidence). Colorado law allows punitive damages when defendants act with “fraud, malice, or willful and wanton conduct.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Weld County 18-Wheeler Accidents

Immediate After-Accident Questions

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Weld County?

If you’ve been in a trucking accident on I-25, I-76, or any Weld County highway, take these steps immediately if you’re able: Call 911 and report the accident. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor—adrenaline masks pain, and internal injuries may not show symptoms for hours. Document the scene with photos and video if possible, capturing vehicle damage, road conditions, and any skid marks. Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information. Collect witness contact information. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company. Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately.

Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?

Absolutely yes. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Weld County hospitals and trauma centers can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim—they’ll argue your injuries weren’t caused by the accident or weren’t serious enough to require immediate care.

What information should I collect at the truck accident scene in Weld County?

Document everything possible: truck and trailer license plates; DOT number (on truck door); trucking company name and logo; driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info; photos of all vehicle damage from multiple angles; photos of the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks, and debris; photos of your injuries; witness names and phone numbers; responding officer’s name and badge number; weather and road conditions at the time.

Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

Never. Do not give any recorded statements. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years inside the system. He knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests—and now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney in Weld County?

Immediately—within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence in trucking cases (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever. The trucking company is already building their defense. What are you doing?

Trucking Company and Driver Questions

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Weld County?

Multiple parties may be liable: the truck driver; the trucking company/motor carrier; the cargo owner or shipper; the company that loaded the cargo; truck or parts manufacturers; maintenance companies; freight brokers; the truck owner (if different from carrier); and government entities (for road defects). We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?

Usually yes. Under respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for negligent hiring (unqualified drivers), negligent training (inadequate safety training), negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior), and negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep).

What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?

Colorado uses a modified comparative negligence system with a 50% bar. If you’re found less than 50% at fault, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re 50% or more at fault, you recover nothing. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs—the data tells the true story.

Evidence and Investigation Questions

What is a truck’s “black box” and how does it help my case?

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data—similar to airplane black boxes. This data shows speed before and during the crash, brake application timing, engine RPM and throttle position, whether cruise control was engaged, and GPS location. This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices are federally mandated devices that record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued. Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents.

How long does the trucking company keep black box and ELD data?

ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. FMCSA only requires 6-month retention for ELD data. This is why we send spoliation letters immediately—once we notify them of litigation, they must preserve everything.

FMCSA Regulations Questions

What are hours of service regulations and how do violations cause accidents?

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate: maximum 11 hours driving after 10 hours off; cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty; 30-minute break required after 8 hours driving; 60/70 hour weekly limits. Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. Drivers who violate these rules are too tired to react safely.

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find: hours of service violations (driving too long); false log entries (lying about driving time); brake system deficiencies; cargo securement failures; drug and alcohol violations; unqualified drivers (no valid CDL or medical certificate); failure to inspect vehicles.

Injury and Medical Questions

What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in Weld County?

Due to the massive size and weight disparity, trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries: traumatic brain injury (TBI), spinal cord injuries and paralysis, amputations, severe burns, internal organ damage, multiple fractures, and wrongful death.

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Weld County?

Case values depend on many factors: severity of injuries; medical expenses (past and future); lost income and earning capacity; pain and suffering; degree of defendant’s negligence; and insurance coverage available. Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents. We’ve seen verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions.

Legal Process Questions

How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Weld County?

In Colorado, you have two years from the date of your trucking accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, you have two years from the date of death. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?

Timelines vary: simple cases with clear liability may resolve in 6-12 months; complex cases with multiple parties often take 1-3 years; cases that go to trial may take 2-4 years. We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court—and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys. We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way if necessary.

Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?

No. We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket. Standard contingency fees are 33.33% pre-trial and 40% if trial is necessary.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Weld County Trucking Accident Case

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s admitted to federal court in the Southern District of Texas, giving him the capability to handle complex interstate trucking cases. He’s gone toe-to-toe with Fortune 500 corporations, including BP in the Texas City refinery explosion litigation that killed 15 workers and injured 170 more. That $2.1 billion disaster settlement industry-wide demonstrates our capability to handle the most complex, high-stakes cases.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Your Side

Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working at a national insurance defense firm. He watched adjusters minimize claims. He saw how they train their people to lowball victims. Now he exposes those tactics and uses his insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation. When the trucking company’s insurance adjuster calls, Lupe knows exactly what they’re trying to do—and how to stop them.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our track record speaks for itself:

• $5+ million for a traumatic brain injury victim struck by a falling log
• $3.8+ million for a client who suffered partial leg amputation after a car accident with medical complications
• $2.5+ million for a commercial truck crash victim
• $2+ million for a maritime worker with back injury under the Jones Act
• Millions recovered for families in wrongful death trucking accidents

We’ve recovered over $50 million for Texas families across all practice areas—and we’re ready to fight for you in Weld County.

4.9-Star Client Satisfaction

Our clients say it better than we can. As Chad Harris told us: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” Glenda Walker put it simply: “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” Donald Wilcox came to us after another firm rejected his case—we got him “a call to come pick up this handsome check.”

With 251+ Google reviews and a 4.9-star average, our commitment to treating clients like family isn’t just talk—it’s proven.

Three Office Locations, Colorado-Ready

With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve trucking accident victims across Texas and beyond. For Weld County cases, we offer remote consultations and travel to Colorado for your case. Our federal court experience means we can represent you in Weld County regardless of where our physical offices are located.

Hablamos Español

Many trucking accident victims in Weld County speak Spanish as their primary language. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Weld County Trucking Accident FAQ: Your Questions Answered

What makes 18-wheeler accidents different from car accidents in Weld County?

The size disparity (80,000 lbs vs. 4,000 lbs), federal regulatory framework, multiple liable parties, higher insurance coverage, and catastrophic injury patterns make trucking accidents fundamentally different. They require specialized attorneys who understand FMCSA regulations, not just personal injury law.

How does Colorado’s modified comparative negligence affect my case?

Colorado uses a 50% bar rule. If you’re found less than 50% at fault, you recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re 50% or more at fault, you recover nothing. This makes thorough investigation and evidence preservation critical—we need to prove the truck driver and company were primarily responsible.

What if the trucking company is from out of state?

Federal trucking regulations apply nationwide. Our federal court admission allows us to pursue out-of-state carriers. The trucking company’s insurance must cover accidents in Colorado regardless of where they’re headquartered.

How do I know if the truck driver was fatigued?

ELD data proves hours of service compliance. We also examine dispatch records for unrealistic scheduling, driver pay structures that incentivize speeding, and company culture that prioritizes delivery over safety. Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background helps us identify the fatigue indicators that companies try to hide.

What if the truck had defective brakes or tires?

We pursue product liability claims against manufacturers and maintenance companies. 49 CFR Part 396 requires systematic inspection and maintenance. Failure to comply creates direct negligence liability. We preserve failed components for expert analysis and research recall histories.

Can I recover if I was partially at fault?

Yes, if you’re less than 50% at fault under Colorado law. Even if you contributed to the accident, the truck driver and company’s negligence may still be the primary cause. Don’t assume you can’t recover—let us investigate.

How long will my case take?

Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months. Complex cases with multiple parties or catastrophic injuries: 1-3 years. Cases requiring trial: 2-4 years. We work efficiently while ensuring no corners are cut on your recovery.

What if the trucking company offers a quick settlement?

Reject it. Quick offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand your full injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney. As Glenda Walker told us after we fought for her: we work to get you “every dime you deserve”—not just what the insurance company wants to pay.

Your Next Step: Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911

The trucking company that hit you has already called their lawyers. Their insurance adjuster is already looking for ways to pay you less. Their rapid-response team is already at the scene protecting their interests.

What are you doing?

Every hour you wait, evidence in your Weld County trucking accident case disappears. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. The trucking company is building their defense while you’re trying to heal.

We don’t let that happen. When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, we immediately send preservation letters to lock down critical evidence. We deploy investigators to the scene. We subpoena ELD records and driver files. We build your case while you focus on recovery.

Ralph Manginello has spent over 25 years making trucking companies pay. He’s secured multi-million dollar verdicts against Fortune 500 corporations. He’s admitted to federal court. He’s fought in the BP Texas City explosion litigation that killed 15 workers and injured 170 more.

Lupe Peña worked for insurance companies before joining our team. He knows every tactic they’ll use against you. Now he fights for you, not them. That’s your advantage.

Our clients say it best. Chad Harris told us: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” Glenda Walker said we “fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” Donald Wilcox came to us after another firm rejected his case—we got him “a call to come pick up this handsome check.”

We work on contingency. You pay nothing unless we win. We advance all investigation costs. You never receive a bill from us.

Hablamos Español. Lupe Peña provides direct Spanish representation without interpreters. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

The clock started the moment that truck hit you. Within 48 hours, critical evidence can be overwritten—and the trucking company knows it. Call now before it’s gone: 1-888-ATTY-911.

We’re Attorney911. Because trucking companies shouldn’t get away with it.